What will happen if a testing officer asks you for a bribe to pass your driving test and you give it to him or her?What will happen if a testing officer asks you for a bribe to pass your driving test and you give it to him or her?

A. Only the testing officer will be investigated

B. Nothing, there is no penalty

C. Action will be taken against all involved. The penalties are severe and include fines and imprisonment.

D. Monies will be forfeited to charity and you will have to apply and pay for your test again

The correct answer is C

Correct. You should never pay a bribe.

Cheating on the driver or rider knowledge test

The purpose of a drivers licence is to show that you understand the road rules, understand society’s concerns about reducing the impact of traffic on the environment, have the skills necessary to drive safely, can obey the laws, and can pay the required fee which goes towards administering the system for all.

Cheating on a test bypasses these checks and is illegal. If you are caught cheating you will not be allowed to take another test for six weeks and you will forfeit the test fee and will have to pay it again.

Cheating is when you :

Receive any unauthorised assistance.

Use any materials that would help you to pass the test.

Use a mobile phone or other communication device.

Speak or signal to any other person (except the registry officer when necessary).

Leave the test area.

If you do any of these you will be immediately failed.

Bribery

It’s illegal to attempt to bribe an examiner, or offer gifts, money or other favour in order to get your licence without passing the required tests. All cases of corruption are investigated and offenders are penalised and/or prosecuted.

It’s also illegal for an examiner or testing officer to ask for a bribe, gifts, money or other favours. You should report any testing officer that does. If you agree to the bribe you will both be prosecuted.

In both cases the fines are severe and you may be imprisoned.

Fees for licences should only be paid to Roads and Maritime.

If you know or believe that anyone has got or is about to get a NSW licence by offering or responding to a request for a bribe – or if you suspect or know of any other corruption involving an RMS employee – telephone Roads & Maritime on 1800 043 642 (free call) or the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) on (02) 8281 5999.